*Last updated on: 25 Nov 2024
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Subclass 103 - Parent Visa

Offshore Parent Visa (Non-Contributory)

Overview of the Subclass 103 Visa

The Subclass 103 Parent Visa allows parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens to migrate permanently to Australia and reunite with their families. This visa offers a lower-cost option compared to contributory parent visas, but it comes with significantly longer processing times. Once granted, it provides all the benefits of Australian permanent residency, including access to healthcare, work rights, and pathways to citizenship.

Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 103 Visa Applicants

Age Requirements

No specific age requirement.

Visa Status

Applicants holding a Subclass 870 Sponsored Parent (Temporary) Visa are not eligible.

Location

Applicants must be outside Australia when the application is lodged and when the visa is granted.

Family Balance Test

Applicants must meet this requirement, which evaluates their ties to Australia:

At least 50% of the applicant's children must reside permanently in Australia as Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens; or
More children must live permanently in Australia than in any other single country.

Stepchildren are considered under this test if they meet certain conditions, ensuring all familial ties are appropriately considered.

No Outstanding Debts

Applicants must have no unresolved debts to the Australian government, or they must have formal arrangements in place for repayment.

Previous Visa History

Applicants should not have a history of visa cancellations or refusals.

Child Welfare Consideration

Applications involving children must align with Australian child welfare laws to ensure their best interests are protected.

Health and Character Requirements

All applicants must meet Australian health and character standards. This includes:

Undergoing medical examinations as directed.
Providing police clearance certificates from every country they have lived in for 12 months or more in the last ten years.

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors

Relationship Requirement: The sponsor must be the applicant’s child and must be an Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen.
Age: The sponsor must be 18 years or older. If the applicant’s child is under 18, alternative sponsorship arrangements may apply (outlined in detail below).
Residency Requirement: The sponsor must have lived in Australia for at least two years prior to sponsoring.
Assurance of Support (AoS): Sponsors must provide a financial commitment through an AoS to assure the Australian government that the applicant will not rely on public welfare for 10 years: (1) Demonstrating financial capacity, including meeting minimum income thresholds; and (2) Providing a security bond (AUD $10,000 for one parent, AUD $14,000 for two parents).

Alternative Sponsorship Options for Applicants with Children Under 18

If the primary child sponsor is under 18, an alternative sponsor may be:

The child’s cohabiting partner (spouse or de facto).
A close relative or guardian of the child or the child’s partner.
A community organisation (under specific conditions): (1) Demonstrated relationship with the applicant’s child. (2) Established as a legal entity operating in Australia for at least 12 months. (3) A senior representative must agree to sponsorship. (4) Financial capability to meet sponsorship commitments.

Eligibility for Dependent Children of the Applicant

Age Criteria: (1) Must be under 18 years, or (2) Aged 18 to 23 years and financially dependent on the primary applicant due to full-time study, or (3) No age limit applies if the dependent child has a disability preventing them from working.

Financial Dependence: Evidence of financial support covering essential needs (e.g., living, education).

Health & Character Requirements: Dependents must meet similar health and character standards as the primary applicant.

Application Process

Submit Visa Application

Applicants lodge their application along with supporting documentation, meeting eligibility requirements and paying the relevant fees.

Lodge and Submit Assurance of Support (AoS)

Sponsors are required to provide a formal AoS, proving financial ability and commitment to support the parent(s). Sponsors will need to pay a bond, refundable after a 10-year period, if no social welfare reliance occurs.

Visa Grant

Once all eligibility criteria are met, and processing is complete, the visa is granted, allowing permanent residence in Australia.

Stay Duration

Permanent residency, allowing indefinite stay with a travel component valid for five years from the date of grant. After this period, residents may need to apply for a Resident Return Visa (RRV) to maintain travel rights.

Visa Costs and Fees

Primary Applicant:
AUD $5,125

Secondary Applicants (18 and over):
AUD $2,565

Dependent Children (under 18):
AUD $1,285

Second Instalment:
AUD $2,065

AoS Bond:
AUD $10,000 for one parent. AUD $14,000 for two parents (bond returned after 10 years if conditions are met).

Note: Fees are subject to updates as per the Department of Home Affairs, they should be verified before application. Additional costs may apply for health checks, police checks, and biometrics.

Processing Times

Approximately 31 years due to high demand and limited placements.

Note: Processing times vary based on the completeness of documentation, volume of applications and other factors. They are obtained from The Australian Department of Home Affairs website and only serve as guidance.

Key Benefits & Challenges of the Subclass 103 Visa

Key benefits:

1. Permanent Residency:
Allows parents to live permanently in Australia with full rights to work, study, and access Medicare.
2. Lower Upfront Cost:
Unlike the Contributory Parent Visa, it does not require a large financial contribution for the application.
3. Family Reunion:
Provides an opportunity for parents to reunite and live with their children who are settled in Australia.

Key Challenges:

1. Extremely Long Processing Times:
The wait time can be up to 30 years due to high demand and limited placements.
2. Overseas Application:
Applicants must be outside Australia both when they apply and when the visa is granted.

Your Questions Answered

Who can apply for the Subclass 103 visa?

Parents of Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens, who meet eligibility criteria including the balance of family test and other requirements.

Do applicants need to be outside Australia to apply?

Yes, applicants must be outside Australia both when they apply and when the visa is granted.

What is the balance of family test for the Subclass 103 visa?

At least half of the applicant’s children must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or eligible New Zealand citizens living permanently in Australia, or more children must reside in Australia than in any other single country. If you do not meet this requirement, you may not be eligible for the Subclass 103 visa. You should explore other available visa options.

Are there any sponsorship restrictions for my child?

Yes, your child must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen, aged 18 or older. If your child is under 18, alternative sponsorship arrangements may be necessary.

Can I include family members in my application?

Yes, dependent children and other eligible family members may be included in your application, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

What if my circumstances change after I apply for the visa?

You must inform the Department of Home Affairs of any significant changes, such as changes to family composition, relationship status, or other relevant matters.

Is there an Assurance of Support requirement?

Yes, sponsors may need to provide an Assurance of Support (AoS), which is a legal commitment to financially support the applicant and prevent reliance on social welfare.

How is the Subclass 103 different from the Contributory Parent Visa (Subclass 143)?

The Subclass 103 visa has lower application fees but significantly longer processing times, while the Contributory Parent Visa requires a larger financial contribution but offers faster processing.

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